We sow rue seeds in mid January to sell in 4 1/2" pots at May 1. The seed are put in a germinating mix and placed on bottom heat, kept barely moist and in bright light (greenhouse). When the seed have germinated (1-4 weeks), we remove from the heat bed and let them get 2 sets of "real" leaves before transplanting into small cells/pots, about 2-2 12". We use a commercial soilless mix. And when the roots have filled that container, we bump them into a 4 1/2" for sale. DO NOT keep rue moist, rue does not tolerate overwatering. Let the plants get a little dry before watering. Once established in the ground, they may not need additional water except in drought. A January seedling usually grows to appx. 12-15" by early July.

All the rue I have has gone a nasty brown. Should I cut out the brown bits and let the green bits grow? It has been there for several years and usually gives no trouble. Would it like some compost/manure? Thank you very much for your help.